Fact 1: A Significant Day in Pakistan
August 14 is an important date for Pakistan as it marks the country's independence from British rule in 1947. This day is celebrated all over the country with extravagant celebrations. From military parades to flag hoisting ceremonies, the whole nation comes together to commemorate this momentous occasion.
Fact 2: Birth of the Navajo Code Talkers
On this day in 1945, the Navajo code talkers, who played an important role during WWII, disbanded. The Navajo language was used to create a code that was impossible for the enemy to crack and was instrumental in the Allied forces winning the war.
Fact 3: Premiere of The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Aug 14, 1975, saw the London premiere of the iconic musical horror comedy film "The Rocky Horror Picture Show". Through this show, audiences worldwide were introduced to the loveable characters of Dr. Frank N. Furter, Brad Majors, and Janet Weiss.
Fact 4: Establishment of The Social Security Act
The United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law on this day in 1935. It aimed at providing economic security for the elderly, the unemployed, and children.
Fact 5: Start of Construction of the Panama Canal
On August 14, 1904, the construction of one of the most ambitious engineering endeavors in history, the Panama Canal, started.
Fact 6: The Beatles’ Last Official Concert
On this day in 1966, legendary band The Beatles played their last official concert. The show took place at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, marking the end of their touring days.
Fact 7: Launching of Mariner 7
August 14, 1962, was the date when Mariner 7 was launched by NASA. This robotic spacecraft successfully completed a flyby of Mars in 1969.
Fact 8: USSR's Admission into the League of Nations
On August 14, 1934, the USSR was admitted to the League of Nations, the predecessor of the United Nations, warranting its participation in international discussions and policies.
Fact 9: First Radio Broadcast in South Africa
Science and technology made leaps on August 14, 1923, when South Africa made its first experimental radio broadcast, paving the way for greater connectivity.
Fact 10: The Birth of Steve Martin
Famous actor, comedian, and musician Steve Martin was born on this date in 1945. He has made significant contributions to Hollywood over the years.
Fact 11: Publication of the Wizard of Oz
On August 14, 1900, L. Frank Baum's iconic novel, 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' was first published. This fantasy novel is cherished by readers worldwide for its captivating plot and timeless appeal.
Fact 12: First Execution by Electric Chair
In 1890, the first execution by the electric chair took place in New York's Auburn prison on this day.
Fact 13: Code-breaking of the Enigma Machine
The day marks the successful decoding of the German secret coding machine, the Enigma, by British cryptographers during World War II.
Fact 14: Foundation of the Canada Post Corporation
August 14, 1981, saw the establishment of Canada Post Corporation, the primary postal operator in Canada.
Fact 15: End of the Birmingham campaign
The Birmingham campaign, an important event in the Civil Rights Movement, officially ended on this day in 1963 in the United States.
Fact 16: The Discovery of the Planet Neptune
The planet Neptune was officially discovered on August 14, 1846, immortalizing this day in the annals of astronomy.
Fact 17: Opening of Leeds and Liverpool Canal
On August 14, 1774, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in England officially opened for navigation, creating a vital communications link in the Industrial Revolution.
Fact 18: Birth of Halle Berry
Renowned actress and former beauty queen Halle Berry was born on this day in 1966. Her performances have earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.
Fact 19: The Olympic Audacity of Nurmi
August 14 marks the day when, in 1924, Paavo Nurmi, nicknamed the "Flying Finn," won five gold medals at the Paris Olympics — a feat never repeated since.
Fact 20: Cultivation of the First Grapevine in California
The wine industry plays a crucial role in California's economy, and it all started on August 14, 1769, when the first grapevine in the state was planted.